Senator McCain Commends Iraqi Government for Political Progress

Statement

SENATOR MCCAIN COMMENDS IRAQI GOVERNMENT FOR POLITICAL PROGRESS

U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ) today released the following statement on the recent laws passed by the Iraqi government:

"I commend the Iraqi government on the passage today of three key pieces of legislation. In passing the 2008 budget, providing a limited amnesty for detainees in Iraqi jails, and outlining the scope of provincial powers - including setting a date for provincial elections - the Iraqi parliament has taken a major step.

"While I look forward to examining the final details of these new laws, and while the legislation must still be approved by Iraq's Presidency Council, the passage of these three laws appears to mark a significant achievement.

"A great deal of compromise was required by the various parties in Iraq's parliament and the political leadership demonstrated that it can address and resolve difficult issues. This spirit will be necessary for the government to make progress on other issues in the coming months. In doing so, the Iraqis can build on the clear successes of General Petraeus' ‘surge' strategy and augur a brighter day for their country and the region as a whole."

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